Should I landscape my garden?
[lead]Whether it’s a small landscaped oasis or a hectare of land that requires expert hands, it’s one of the most quintessential English things – enjoying your garden.[/lead]
Your garden and your home value are a duo that can’t be ignored, like Riggs & Murtagh. Gardens are one of the most important features of your home and one for home buyers too. You may think that landscaping your garden could add value – and it does however, whether to landscape your garden is a decision that requires careful consideration of various factors, including regional real estate trends, and personal circumstances. This blog explores the pros and cons of investing in landscaping, with a particular focus on house prices in Chester.
The Pros of Landscaping Your Garden
Increase in House Price
You will have seen the shows on daytime TV and thought, “I can do that” and then realise that a well landscaped garden can add value. You’re right by the way… one of the primary reasons homeowners invest in landscaping is the potential increase in property value.
According to experts, a well-landscaped garden can boost a home’s value by up to 20%. This significant increase is due to the aesthetic appeal and functional improvements that a landscaped garden provides. Nationwide, a leading UK building society, highlights that homes with well-maintained gardens often sell for a premium compared to those without.
In Chester, the property market has seen notable trends. According to Rightmove, house prices in Chester have risen by approximately 5.5% over the past year. This increase makes it a favourable time for homeowners to invest in landscaping, as the improvements could further enhance their property’s market value in an already appreciating market.
Enhanced Curb Appeal
You always hear about curb appeal and it’s definitely true. In fact, watch another daytime TV show on buying a home in the country and you will see what we mean. A home has to look welcoming and that there is something there to look after.
A beautifully landscaped garden can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal, making it more attractive to potential buyers. First impressions matter, and a well-designed garden can set your home apart from others on the market. Features such as manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and functional outdoor spaces like patios or decks can create a welcoming atmosphere that draws buyers in.
Personal Enjoyment
Beyond financial benefits, a landscaped garden provides personal enjoyment. Creating a space where you can relax, entertain guests, and enjoy nature can improve your quality of life. A garden can become a sanctuary, offering a place to unwind after a long day and a venue for family gatherings or social events.
Think fire pits and a glass of Aperol in the summer, covered gazebos and a gin in the autumn and fairy lights all year round. Those more adventurous may even opt for a premium pizza oven like many of our friends causing some garden envy.
Sustainable Living
This may seem not such a biggie but it kind of is if you think about the world today and the world of tomorrow.
Landscaping can also promote sustainable living. By incorporating native plants, water-efficient irrigation systems, and organic gardening practices, you can create an eco-friendly garden that conserves resources and supports local biodiversity. Someone who cares about the environment is your prime target home sale with a garden equipped for the future and promoting sustainable living.
With all of that said, there are however some cons of landscaping your garden…
The Cons of Landscaping Your Garden
Initial Investment
Landscaping is not cheap. Even the word feels expensive. It’s the reason why many don’t landscape or take over 20 years to get the garden into the perfect shape being primarily self taught. But that may not be you. You may not have the professional green fingers needed to create such a beautiful garden.
Professional landscaping services can be expensive, with prices varying depending on the scope of the project and the materials used. Homeowners need to weigh the potential increase in house price against the upfront costs to determine if the investment is worthwhile. For example if you think that the new garden could add, 10% to your home value and your house is worth £300,000 right now, your target is £330,000 with this investment.
Well, if the landscaping is nearly £15,000 you essentially make 5% on your investment. Of course, if you landscape and live in your chester home for a year or two and then go to sell, with average values increasing over time this will work better for you.
Maintenance Requirements
Naturally, a landscaped garden requires ongoing maintenance to keep it looking its best. Have you ever seen a well maintained garden without someone always doing something to it?
Tasks such as mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, and watering plants can be time-consuming and may require additional expenses if you hire professional help. For busy homeowners or those not inclined to gardening, this maintenance can become a burden.
An average cost of garden maintenance per month can run into the hundreds of pounds, especially around spring and autumn when the weather is against you.
Market Preferences
If you’re in the countryside, a beautiful, landscaped garden goes down a treat. However, not all buyers may value a garden as highly as others, particularly in urban areas where outdoor space is limited. In such cases, the return on investment may not be as significant.
It’s about space utilisation and for smaller properties, a simple touch of paint on fences, weeding and even small patio table set is all that is needed to show how the space can be used and can equally be beautiful without a big expense.
Quick Sale Considerations
If you need to sell your home quickly, investing in landscaping might not be the best option. Instead, focusing on essential repairs and minor improvements can be more effective in achieving a quick sale.
Additionally, some buyers prefer to personalise their outdoor space, so leaving the garden as a blank canvas could be advantageous.
Expert Recommendations
Gareth Friend says, “knowing what you want to do with the garden and how quickly you want to move is the key. If you get a place landscaped quickly, it could look a dogs dinner – corners inevitably get cut. However if you buy a home with the view of staying there a few years, then landscaping can add value and claw back initial investment over time.”
Choosing the right plants is also crucial. In Chester, plants that thrive in the local climate, such as lavender, roses, and hardy perennials, are excellent choices. These plants not only add colour and fragrance to the garden but also require less maintenance.
According to Nationwide, incorporating elements like water features, outdoor lighting, and seating areas can also enhance your garden’s appeal and value. However, it’s essential to balance aesthetics with functionality to create a space that meets the needs of potential buyers.
House Prices in Chester
Examining recent trends, house prices in Chester have shown a steady increase. Data from Rightmove indicates that the average property price in Chester over the past year is around £318,000, with detached homes averaging £474,000. This growth highlights the strong demand for properties in the area and the potential for homeowners to capitalise on this trend through strategic improvements like landscaping.
Adding garden offices, low maintenance garden solutions and even a new patio can, over time add value to the property as long as they are well kept.
Deciding whether to landscape your garden involves considering the potential increase in house price, the initial investment, and personal circumstances. Chester’s rising property market means that landscaping can be a worthwhile investment that enhances both the value and enjoyment of your home.
“It’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully and seek expert advice to ensure that your investment pays off” advises Gareth.
“Speak to our team when considering your house move. What could the investment really bring back and what are your objectives on moving, selling or investing over the short, medium and long term. Remember, you may choose to sell in a year so having an idea of your current house price and what these investments look like will determine whether you should or shouldn’t landscape your garden.”
Whether you choose to landscape your garden or not, the key is to create a home that meets your needs and appeals to potential buyers – and for you in the short and long term!
Remember, here at Carman Friend we’re here to help with your home selling, buying and choosing dilemmas. Our team of experts can give you advice and knowledge to help you make the best decisions. Get in touch with us today.